All vintages, and in fact all wines, follow a very similar pattern, so there's not a lot new to say about the 2010 El Nido (70% Monastrell and the rest Cabernet, aged for 23 months in barrel) and it seems to follow the pattern of faster evolution like the rest of 2010; something that is a bit puzzling for a vintage that generally speaking was really good and almost textbook. The nose opens to balsamic notes with plenty of oak-related aromas, spices, alcohol, ripe plums and oxidative notes. The palate reveals masses of slightly chunky, rustic tannins and the fruit seems to be fading, so I'd opt for drinking it sooner rather than later. 6,000 bottles.

Kirsch, black currant, licorice, balsamic and black pepper mingle in this rich, muscular red. A dense texture carries deep flavors that stay harmonious and fresh through the spicy finish. A big wine, in the modern style. Better than previously reviewed. Drink now through 2020. 400 cases made, 200 cases imported.??–TM??Region: Spain / Jumilla Select to Add

Dark blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Monastrell with markedly clean oak. The nose is still youthful and very intense with notes of kirsch, blackberry juice, sweet spices such as nutmeg and cloves, together with black pepper and cedar. Markedly modern in style as it is extremely juicy and sweet with massive ripe tannins. Moderate acid. (FC)

This Monastrell-Cabernet blend is ripe and syrupy. The palate is so saturated that it verges on being overdone. Flavors of blackberry and cassis syrup finish heavy, sweet and sticky.